'MyVarsityCoach' Entrepreneur, Tiki Bar, Top Principal: Good News IL

ILLINOIS — Although plenty of rain and dreary weather this week did its best to dampen the spirits of local residents around the greater Chicago area, there were some bright spots. Take, for instance, Glenview student Arman Patel who is putting his love of sports and an entrepreneurial spirit to work in his own business.

Meanwhile, two local high school robotics companies showed they have the right stuff in qualifying for the national competition in Texas. A Downers Grove church continues to wire more Ukraine to help move refugees out of a warzone, which is among the stories that made Patch editors smile this week. We hope you'll enjoy them just as much.

Helping Young Athletes: Glenview Student Starts Own Company

Downers Grove Church Raises More Than $47K For Ukraine Rescue Efforts

Christian Worship Center has been wiring money to Ukraine weekly and has helped to transport, feed, and provide homes for 17,000 refugees.

District 308 Robotics Team Headed To World Competition

Team 2338 Gear It Forward was honored with the prestigious Chairman's Award, which qualifies the team for the world competition in Houston.

Chicago Heights Robotics Team Raises Funds To Attend World Competition

The Blazin' Bots of Bloom Trail High School don't have enough money to send their entire team, robots and all, to the Dallas competition.

'Tiki Bar Takeover' Transforms Reserve 22 Into Tropical Destination

“We want to be able to transport people to a hidden tropical oasis in their own hometown," Julie Rusin of Reserve 22 told Patch.

Brooks Middle School Wood Named Illinois' Top Middle School Principal

Keith Wood, who has served as the top administrator at Brooks for 10 years, received the honor this week for his commitment and dedication.